The Auratus Cichlid (Melanochromis auratus), also known as the Black and White Cichlid or Black and White Striped Cichlid, is one of the most distinctive and eye-catching African cichlids from Lake Malawi. With its bold horizontal stripes and unique color changes as it matures, the Auratus is both beautiful and fascinating to watch. This hardy and active mbuna species is ideal for aquarists seeking a vibrant and energetic centerpiece for their cichlid tank. Native to the rocky shorelines of Lake Malawi, Africa, the Auratus cichlid is part of the mbuna group, known for their brilliant colors and lively behavior. Juvenile auratus display bright golden-yellow bodies with bold black horizontal stripes, while adult males often transform into a dramatic Black and White Striped Cichlid pattern with hints of iridescent blue. This striking change makes the Melanochromis auratus one of the most fascinating cichlids in the hobby. The Auratus cichlid size reaches about 4–5 inches (10–13 cm) in home aquariums. Their slim, elongated bodies are adorned with strong horizontal stripes, which shift in color depending on age, sex, and dominance. Males in breeding coloration display deep black bodies with bold white and blue highlights, while females and juveniles retain the golden-yellow base with black striping. Auratus cichlids are known for their semi-aggressive temperament, especially males. They thrive in mbuna aquariums with plenty of rocks, caves, and hiding spaces that allow territories to form. Ideal tankmates include other mbuna cichlids of similar size and aggression levels, such as Blue Zebras, Red Zebras, and Cobalt blues. Avoid mixing with peaceful community fish, as the Auratus may become too dominant in smaller or mixed setups. At Splashy Fish tropical fish store, our Auratus Cichlid for sale and other Cichlids for sale are tank-raised, healthy, and carefully selected for vivid coloration and optimal size. Shop online or visit our aquarium store in Virginia to discover high-quality freshwater fish for sale, betta fish for sale, freshwater shrimp for sale, aquatic plants for sale, and essential aquarium supplies. WHAT MAKES THIS FISH SPECIAL? Bold horizontal stripes: juveniles are golden-yellow, adults become black and white striped Medium-sized mbuna: grows to 4–5 inches in captivity Active and hardy: ideal for experienced cichlid keepers Semi-aggressive: thrives in rocky aquariums with ample space One of the most striking and unique mbuna cichlids from Lake Malawi RECOMMENDED TANK PARAMETERS Tank Size: Minimum 55 gallons for a group Temperature: 75°–82°F (24°–28°C) pH: 7.8–8.6 (alkaline, Lake Malawi conditions) Hardness: 8–20 dGH Filtration: Strong with high oxygenation and regular water changes CARE GUIDELINES Diet: Omnivorous with a strong herbivorous preference. Feed high-quality cichlid pellets, spirulina flakes, and vegetable matter, supplemented with occasional frozen foods such as brine shrimp. Avoid protein-heavy diets that can cause digestive issues. Tank Setup: Provide rocky aquascapes with caves and sandy substrate to replicate their Lake Malawi habitat. Territories are essential to reduce aggression. Behavior: Semi-aggressive, especially males. Works best in larger tanks with multiple hiding spots and balanced male-to-female ratios. See more detailed information on How to Care for Cichlid Fish here.
